Solar thermal storage chemistry

What is a molecular solar thermal energy storage system?

The first key step in the molecular solar thermal energy storage system is the absorption of light by the parent molecule, which undergoes a reversible photoisomerization reaction to its corresponding metastable isomer.

What is a solar energy storage system?

These systems have been expanded significantly in the last decades , even though the first idea dates a while back . The MOST approach is based on the storage of solar energy as chemical energy using a photoactive molecule, which, after being exposed to sunlight, isomerizes into a metastable high-energy photoisomer .

Can molecular photoswitches be used in solar thermal energy storage?

The calculated energy densities of the dimer and trimer systems of up to 927 kJ kg −1 (257 Wh kg −1) and measured densities up to 559 kJ kg −1 (155 Wh kg −1) greatly exceed the original targets of 300 kJ kg -1 15 highlighting the potential of applying molecular photoswitches in future solar thermal energy storage technologies.

What is the ideal absorption scenario for Molecular Solar thermal energy storage?

The ideal absorption scenario for molecular solar thermal energy storage systems is to use solar radiation, which reaches the Earth’s surface at high intensities . Thus, targeting a photoisomerization induced reaction in the 350–450 nm range is highly desirable.

What is the energy density of a solar thermal battery?

These molecules have reached energy density values close to the maximum energy density limit of a solar thermal battery at 1 MJ/kg . In contrast, the absorption of unsubstituted NBD is within the UVC range (less than 267 nm) and does not overlap with the solar spectrum, which begins at 340 nm .

Can natural photosynthesis be used for solar energy use and storage?

This is especially relevant for solar energy use and storage , which has been envisioned as an abundant, clean, and promising energy source. Using natural photosynthesis as a working model for solar energy use, scientists are designing and preparing chemical systems capable of capturing and storing solar energy.